What causes shortness of breath?

Shortness of breath can be caused by lung conditions such as asthma and COPD, heart conditions, or reduced physical conditioning.

When should I see a doctor for shortness of breath?

You should seek medical attention if symptoms persist, worsen, or occur at rest.

Shortness of Breath Treatment Tampa FL | Breathewell Pulmonary

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What is Shortness of Breath?

Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is the sensation of not getting enough air. It can occur with activity or even at rest and may signal an underlying medical condition.

It is often related to conditions like Asthma & COPD or other respiratory or cardiac causes.

Common Causes of Shortness of Breath

Asthma

Airway inflammation can make breathing difficult.

Learn more about Asthma & COPD

COPD

A progressive lung condition often related to smoking or environmental exposure.

Cardiac Conditions

Heart conditions can lead to fluid buildup and breathing difficulty.

Deconditioning or Obesity

Reduced fitness levels can contribute to breathlessness with activity.

When to Worry About Shortness of Breath

Seek immediate or urgent care if you experience:

Sudden or severe shortness of breath
Chest pain or pressure
Fainting or dizziness
Blue lips or fingers
Shortness of breath at rest

If symptoms are ongoing or worsening, especially alongside chronic cough, evaluation is recommended.

Our Approach

We perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause and create a personalized treatment plan.

What You Can Expect

Clear diagnosis
Targeted treatment plan
Improved breathing and quality of life

Real Patient Stories

What Our Patients Are Saying

    
 
 
         
   Margaret Large 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Santana really did a wonderful job listening to my husband‘s problems with his breathing and sinuses, and made a number of recommendations that all turned out to be very helpful.  I highly recommend her for any pulmonary issues.  The gentleman that was assisting her and her office was also top-notch
  
 
        
   Ricardo Cruz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best doctor for treatment
  
 
        
   Tamara Espinosa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. La doctora Santana muy atenta y preocupada por sus pacientes
  
 
        
   Bill Cardenas 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Santana takes the time to thoroughly explain everything.
  
 
        
   Lixandra Guerrero Morales 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Yaneidy Santana is an excellent professional. From the very first moment, she was kind and attentive, listened patiently to all my concerns, and made me feel comfortable and cared for. She also has an incredible staff — always helpful, warm, and professional. You can truly tell that they care about their patients’ well-being. Highly recommended!
La doctora Yaneidy Santana es una excelente profesional. Desde el primer momento fue muy atenta y amable, escuchó todas mis inquietudes con paciencia y me hizo sentir en confianza. Además, cuenta con un staff increíble, siempre dispuesto a ayudar y con un trato cálido y profesional. Se nota que realmente se preocupan por el bienestar de sus pacientes. ¡Altamente recomendada!
  
 
        
   Lisset Del Llano De La Rosa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Una súper atención . La doctora Santana excelente y muy atenta
  
 
        
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Les recomiendo la doctora Santana excelente doctora todos son muy amables y siempre buscan la forma como ayudarte gracias doctora
  
 
        
   Abmed Aesthetics 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you're seeking exceptional pulmonary care, I highly recommend Breathwell Pulmonary. From the moment you walk in, the staff is warm, professional, and efficient. The office is well-organized, and appointments are managed seamlessly with minimal wait time.

Dr. Yaneidy Santana Melgarejo stands out as a highly knowledgeable, thorough, and compassionate physician. Her attentive approach, clear communication, and commitment to patient well-being create a care experience that is both professional and reassuring.

Working in healthcare myself, I truly value high-quality, patient-centered care—and Breathwell Pulmonary delivers on every level.

Thank you, Dr. Santana Melgarejo and the entire team!

– Lisandra Garcia Padron
Owner, ABMED Aesthetics & ABMED Clinical Research
  
 
        
   Pawel Miliszewski 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Breathewell Pulmonary Clinic is highly recommended for anyone needing a skilled and compassionate pulmonologist. The doctor provides excellent care and clearly prioritizes patients wellbeing. The receptionist was very patient in explaining the insurance forms and answered all my questions thoroughly.   Overall, a great experience. I truly felt cared for and respected throughout my visit.
  
 
        
   Alejandro Ramos Interian 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Santana! She cared for my grandmother when she was decompensated with COPD, and from the very first moment, we knew she was in the best hands possible.

Dr. Sanatana is the perfect mix of deep medical knowledge and genuine humility. She treated my grandmother with such empathy, patience, and compassion, making sure she was comfortable and truly listened to. It’s rare to find a doctor who not only excels in their field but also takes the time to connect with both the patient and their family on a personal level.

Our family is beyond grateful to have found her, and we can’t recommend her enough. This is the kind of doctor you hope for—the one who makes you feel safe, heard, and cared for, both for yourself and your loved ones. Thank you, Dr. Sanatana, for everything! 💙
  
 
  
  
 
 
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